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These also are proverbs of Solomon which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied:
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It is the glory of God to conceal a matter, But the glory of kings is to search out a matter.
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As the heavens for height and the earth for depth, So the heart of kings is unsearchable.
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Take away the dross from silver, And it will go to the silversmith for jewelry.
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Take away the wicked from before the king, And his throne will be established in righteousness.
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Do not exalt yourself in the presence of the king, And do not stand in the place of the great;
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For it is better that he say to you, "Come up here," Than that you should be put lower in the presence of the prince, Whom your eyes have seen.
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Do not go hastily to court; For what will you do in the end, When your neighbor has put you to shame?
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Debate your case with your neighbor, And do not disclose the secret to another;
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Lest he who hears it expose your shame, And your reputation be ruined.
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A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold In settings of silver.
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Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold Is a wise rebuker to an obedient ear.
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Like the cold of snow in time of harvest Is a faithful messenger to those who send him, For he refreshes the soul of his masters.
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Whoever falsely boasts of giving Is like clouds and wind without rain.
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By long forbearance a ruler is persuaded, And a gentle tongue breaks a bone.
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Have you found honey? Eat only as much as you need, Lest you be filled with it and vomit.
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Seldom set foot in your neighbor's house, Lest he become weary of you and hate you.
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A man who bears false witness against his neighbor Is like a club, a sword, and a sharp arrow.
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Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble Is like a bad tooth and a foot out of joint.